FOOTBALL

Trinidad and Tobago Soca Warriors have withdrawn their services for their next international match against Haiti. The team was carded to participate in the Copa América Centenario Berth match, scheduled for January 8, at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez in Panama City, Panama.

A release from team captain Kenwyne Jones, yesterday stated that members of the team were distressed over the failure of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) to pay the players. The release noted that the players were promised payment following their Concacaf World Cup qualifier against the United States in November.

“We were promised months ago that a payment would be made to the boys after the last game. To date, unfortunately that arrangement has not been honoured, and based on recent discussions with the TTFA, there is no indication as to when these financial matters will be settled.”

Jones described the decision as an unfortunate development on all fronts, claiming the players have consistently sacrificed their personal and professional schedules to produce commendable performances over the last two years with limited resources.

“Of course, we want to play. We want to represent our country to the best of our abilities. We have a talented squad that is eager to give their all. But this is also our livelihood. The conditions must change for our national athletes.”

He said members of his team continue to be overwhelmed by the ongoing support from fans, particularly at the last two World Cup qualifying matches against Guatemala and the USA respectively.

“The support that we've seen from supporters has only made the decision not to play even more difficult and disappointing for the team.”

Jones, along with the T&T Senior Men's National team, is hopeful that a resolution is swift and forthcoming. “Above all else, we never want to disappoint our fans, and we hope that they understand our decision.”